Every player who won both the College World Series and MLB World Series
From Omaha to October: The Exclusive Club of Two-World Champions
Hey baseball fans! Ever wonder what it takes to reach the pinnacle of both college and professional baseball? It's a rare feat, a testament to talent, dedication, and a little bit of luck. We're talking about winning both the College World Series and the Major League Baseball World Series. It's an exclusive club, and today we're diving deep into the stories of the players who've accomplished this incredible double.
This isn't just about listing names. We're exploring their journeys, highlighting key moments, and celebrating their unique contributions to the game. Get ready to meet the select few who conquered both Omaha and October!
The Double Crown: College and MLB Glory
Winning the College World Series is a dream for countless young players. It's a showcase of raw talent, passion, and the camaraderie of a team fighting for glory. Then, to reach the MLB World Series, to stand on that grand stage with the weight of a franchise on your shoulders, that's another level entirely. So, what does it take to achieve both?
Meet the Champions: A Roll Call of Greatness
Let's get to the heart of it. Here's a look at some of the players who have earned both titles. This list isn't exhaustive, as research is always ongoing, and different sources may have slightly varied lists.
Player Name | College World Series Team | Year | MLB World Series Team | Year
| | | |
Frank Viola | St. John's | 1980 | Minnesota Twins | 1987
Dave Winfield | University of Minnesota | 1972, 1973, 1977 | Toronto Blue Jays | 1992
Robin Ventura | Oklahoma State | 1986 | New York Yankees | 2009
Paul Molitor | University of Minnesota | 1977 | Toronto Blue Jays | 1993
Scott Erickson | University of Arizona | 1986 | Minnesota Twins | 1991
Craig Counsell | University of Notre Dame | 1994 | Florida Marlins, Arizona Diamondbacks | 1997, 2001
Andy Benes | University of Evansville | 1988 | St. Louis Cardinals | 2006
John Roper | Texas | 1993 | Florida Marlins | 1997
Alex Bregman | LSU | 2009 | Houston Astros | 2017
Andrew Miller | University of North Carolina | 2006 | Boston Red Sox | 2018
Josh Reddick | Middle Tennessee State | N/A | Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros | 2018, 2017
Joe Girardi | Northwestern University | N/A | New York Yankees | 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000
Trey Mancini | Notre Dame | N/A | Houston Astros | 2022
Nathan Eovaldi | Alvin Community College | N/A | Texas Rangers | 2023
Common Threads: What Drives These Champions?
Looking at these names, some patterns emerge. Many were standout players in college, often leaders on their teams. Viola, Winfield, Molitor and Ventura were all college stars. That talent translated to success at the professional level, but it's more than just raw ability.
The mental fortitude required to succeed in both environments is immense. The pressure of performing in front of huge crowds, the grind of a long season, and the constant scrutiny from fans and media, it all takes a toll. These players demonstrated the resilience needed to thrive under pressure.
From College Star to MLB Icon: Individual Stories
Frank Viola: "Sweet Music" pitched St. John's to the CWS and later earned a World Series MVP with the Twins.
Dave Winfield: A multi sport athlete at Minnesota, Winfield went on to a Hall of Fame career capped by a World Series win with Toronto.
Robin Ventura: Known for his grand slam single in the College World Series, Ventura solidified his reputation for clutch performances.
A Different Kind of Champion: The Manager's Perspective
Joe Girardi is another great example on the list as he was a player who made it from College to the MLB and became a manager. His unique insight into player dynamics, strategy, and leadership helped him lead the Yankees to a World Series title as a manager.
An Even Newer Age of Champions
Players like Alex Bregman, Andrew Miller, Trey Mancini, and Nathan Eovaldi represent a new era of players achieving this double crown. The game has evolved, but the core principles of hard work, dedication, and a winning mentality remain essential.
More Than Just Rings: The Lasting Impact
Ultimately, these players offer inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. Their stories demonstrate that with hard work and determination, even the loftiest goals are within reach. These players didn't just win championships, they left a legacy that will inspire generations of baseball fans.
Seeing these names side by side, the College World Series alongside the Major League World Series, is pretty special. It's a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination, and that the lessons learned on the college diamond can pave the way for success on the biggest stage. It's an inspiring journey, and one that showcases the very best of what baseball has to offer.
Sources:
Baseball-Reference.com
College World Series official website
MLB.com
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